Patna: Political activity in Bihar has intensified ahead of the Rajya Sabha elections, with the contest for the state’s fifth seat emerging as a closely watched battle between the ruling coalition and the opposition.
The governing coalition, led by the NDA, has nominated Upendra Kushwaha, head of the Rashtriya Lok Morcha, for the seat. The opposition Grand Alliance is expected to field a counter-candidate, reportedly deciding to renominate sitting MP Amarendra Dhari Singh for a second consecutive term.
If formally confirmed, Singh’s nomination would set up a direct contest between the two blocs. Sources indicate that Singh arrived on Thursday morning at 10 Circular Road in Patna, the residence of opposition leader Tejashwi Yadav, for a crucial meeting. The discussions are expected to finalise the Grand Alliance’s electoral strategy and procedural preparations before the nomination deadline.
Thursday marks the final day for filing nominations, prompting heightened political manoeuvring. Reports suggest Singh may submit his candidature later in the day following talks with Yadav. Should the Grand Alliance endorse his bid, the election for the fifth seat will effectively become a contest between Kushwaha and Singh.
While the National Democratic Alliance holds a majority in the Bihar assembly, the arithmetic of the Rajya Sabha vote makes the fifth seat unpredictable. Opposition strategists are seeking to maintain unity among their legislators in an attempt to mount a serious challenge, potentially rendering the race more competitive than expected.
Kushwaha’s nomination by the governing coalition carries its own political significance. A veteran of Bihar politics with influence among backward caste voters, his candidacy is seen as an attempt by the alliance to reinforce its social and electoral reach.
